BLAIR Castle, one of Scotland’s biggest tourist destinations, has marked its seasonal opening with a commemoration of the castle’s role in the First World War.
With more than a nod to the centenary of World War One, as well as Scotland’s Year of Homecoming, Blair Castle has developed a new exhibition for visitors to the castle which fully illustrate the impact of the First World War on the family who lived there.
The 7th Duke of Atholl’s three sons were all heavily involved in military operations during the war.
Says a spokesperson: “Lord Tullibardine, later the 8th Duke of Atholl, commanded the Scottish Horse Regiment which subsequently merged with the Black Watch while his brother, Lord George, was tragically lost during the Battle of the Aisne in September 1914.
“Lord James of the Cameron Highlanders, the third brother was injured early on in battle, returned to the front after recuperation, only to be captured and spend the remainder of the war in various prison camps across Germany.
“Back at home, in Blair Atholl, the castle also underwent significant transformation as a Red Cross hospital for the returning wounded.”
It is, says archivist, Jane Anderson, who has brought together the material for the new exhibition, an indication of how the First World War touched the lives of so many Scottish families.
She commented: “It’s simply touching how one family was affected in so many ways by this war. From the ladies of the family working in the Red Cross Hospital at the castle, to the men fighting at the front.
“It took over castle life for many years and, even on return, the 8th Duke took on the responsibility of fundraising and building the National War Memorial at Edinburgh Castle, as well as similar memorials in Blair Atholl, Logierait, Dunkeld and Bankfoot.
“Much of what we still do today to remember those who served in the First World War, we do because of the Duke’s efforts to remember his brothers and his fellow comrades.”
The Family at War exhibition displays various artefacts and information about the individual family members during the war, including personal letters, photos and documents. Visitors to Blair Castle will be able to view the exhibition as part of their Castle Tour.
For more information please visit www.blair-castle.co.uk
ENDS
Notes to Editors:
For further information on this news release, please contact Tricia Fox, Volpa, Tel: 07989 955039 or 01738 658187, Email: t.fox@volpa.co.uk
For further information about Blair Castle, please contact Kate Hannah, Atholl Estates, Tel: 01796 481411, Email: KateH@blair-castle.co.uk
About Atholl Estates
- Atholl Estates is located in Highland Perthshire with offices in Blair Atholl, the estate is centered around the famous landmark of Blair Castle.
- One of Scotland’s best known estates, Atholl Estates dates back to the 13th-century.
- Atholl Estates manages a range of operations in the tourism, events, forestry, farming, property and country sport sectors.
- Atholl Estates also have a range of Highland lodges and a caravan park on site.
- For more information please visit www.atholl-estates.com or call 01796 481411.
About Blair Castle
- Atholl Estates is centered around Blair Castle and gardens in Blair Atholl which are open to the public for day visitors, corporate events, functions and weddings.
- Blair Castle dates back to 1269 and has 30 rooms on display to the public.
- Blair Castle is open to the public from 1st April to 31st October and features a restaurant, gift shop and tours of the house and grounds.
- For more information please visit www.blair-castle.co.uk or call 01796 481411.
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Contact: Tricia Fox
Phone: 01738658187
Email: t.fox@volpa.co.uk
Website: http://www.volpa.co.uk
